We are Steve Brown and Julie Akhurst, and we’ve lived at Ponden Hall since 1998, moving in exactly a month before we got married – we held our wedding reception here that July 11, and 100 people danced upstairs at the ceilidh. We were slightly worried about the floorboards, but this house is made of stern stuff.

Julie worked as journalist on women’s magazines for many years before having children, retraining as a teacher, then opening Ponden to guests. Steve owns SNX Ltd, an Isle-of-Man-based renewable technology and energy services company www.snx.im.

Between us we love walking, birdwatching, local history, ‘collecting’ art galleries, making things, FC Halifax Town, golfing, baking, Scandinavian music and, of course, anything to do with the Brontes.

We have two children, who are delighted to help out with serving your breakfast, and making your stay as enjoyable as possible!